Kakao union prepares in earnest for June strike after wage negotiations break down

Kakao’s union said wage agreement talks for 2026 ended in mediation failure, and it will prepare for industrial action and a possible June strike.

The union is demanding a better performance bonus system and clearer payout standards, while criticizing management’s passive bargaining stance.

It also pointed to controversies over executives’ compensation and restructuring at subsidiaries as reasons for growing labor tension.

Still, the union says it is keeping the door open for further talks.